1
|
Danner B, Gonzalez AD, Corbett WC, Alhneif M, Etemadmoghadam S, Parker-Garza J, Flanagan ME. Brain banking in the United States and Europe: Importance, challenges, and future trends. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2024; 83:219-229. [PMID: 38506125 PMCID: PMC10951968 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlae014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, brain banks have become valuable resources for examining the molecular underpinnings of various neurological and psychological disorders including Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease. However, the availability of brain tissue has significantly declined. Proper collection, preparation, and preservation of postmortem autopsy tissue are essential for optimal downstream brain tissue distribution and experimentation. Collaborations between brain banks through larger networks such as NeuroBioBank with centralized sample request mechanisms promote tissue distribution where brain donations are disproportionately lower. Collaborations between brain banking networks also help to standardize the brain donation and sample preparation processes, ensuring proper distribution and experimentation. Ethical brain donation and thorough processing enhances the responsible conduct of scientific studies. Education and outreach programs that foster collaboration between hospitals, nursing homes, neuropathologists, and other research scientists help to alleviate concerns among potential brain donors. Furthermore, ensuring that biorepositories accurately reflect the true demographics of communities will result in research data that reliably represent populations. Implementing these measures will grant scientists improved access to brain tissue, facilitating a deeper understanding of the neurological diseases that impact millions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Danner
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Angelique D Gonzalez
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - William Cole Corbett
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Mohammad Alhneif
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Shahroo Etemadmoghadam
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Julie Parker-Garza
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Margaret E Flanagan
- Biggs Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cattaneo C, Urakcheeva I, Giacomini G, Stazi MA, Lana S, Arnofi A, Salemi M, Toccaceli V. Attitude and concerns of healthy individuals regarding post-mortem brain donation. A qualitative study on a nation-wide sample in Italy. BMC Med Ethics 2023; 24:104. [PMID: 38012766 PMCID: PMC10683267 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00980-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Collecting post-mortem brain tissue is essential, especially from healthy "control" individuals, to advance knowledge on increasingly common neurological and mental disorders. Yet, healthy individuals, on which this study is focused, are still understudied. The aim of the study was to explore, among healthy potential brain donors and/or donors' relatives, attitude, concerns and opinion about post-mortem brain donation (PMBD). METHODS A convenience sampling of the general population (twins and their non-twin contacts) was adopted. From June 2018 to February 2019, 12 focus groups were conducted in four Italian cities: Milan, Turin, Rome and Naples, stratified according to twin and non-twin status. A qualitative content analysis was performed with both deductive and inductive approaches. Emotional interactions analysis corroborated results. RESULTS One hundred and three individuals (49-91 yrs of age) participated. Female were 60%. Participants had scarse knowledge regarding PMBD. Factors affecting attitude towards donation were: concerns, emotions, and misconceptions about donation and research. Religion, spirituality and secular attitude were implied, as well as trust towards research and medical institutions and a high degree of uncertainty about brain death ascertainment. Family had a very multifaceted central role in decision making. A previous experience with neurodegenerative diseases seems among factors able to favour brain donation. CONCLUSIONS The study sheds light on healthy individuals' attitudes about PMBD. Brain had a special significance for participants, and the ascertainment of brain death was a source of debate and doubt. Our findings emphasise the importance of targeted communication and thorough information to promote this kind of donation, within an ethical framework of conduct. Trust in research and health professionals emerged as an essential factor for a collaborative attitude towards donation and informed decision making in PMBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cattaneo
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gianmarco Giacomini
- Centre of Reference for Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Stazi
- Centre of Reference for Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Lana
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Arnofi
- Centre of Reference for Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Salemi
- Centre of Reference for Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Virgilia Toccaceli
- Centre of Reference for Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Beger AW, Hauther KA, Dudzik B, Woltjer RL, Wood PL. Human Brain Lipidomics: Investigation of Formalin Fixed Brains. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:835628. [PMID: 35782380 PMCID: PMC9245516 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.835628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human brain lipidomics have elucidated structural lipids and lipid signal transduction pathways in neurologic diseases. Such studies have traditionally sourced tissue exclusively from brain bank biorepositories, however, limited inventories signal that these facilities may not be able to keep pace with this growing research domain. Formalin fixed, whole body donors willed to academic institutions offer a potential supplemental tissue source, the lipid profiles of which have yet to be described. To determine the potential of these subjects in lipid analysis, the lipid levels of fresh and fixed frontal cortical gray matter of human donors were compared using high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Results revealed commensurate levels of specific triacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, hexosyl ceramides, and hydroxy hexosyl ceramides. Baseline levels of these lipid families in human fixed tissue were identified via a broader survey study covering six brain regions: cerebellar gray matter, superior cerebellar peduncle, gray and subcortical white matter of the precentral gyrus, periventricular white matter, and internal capsule. Whole body donors may therefore serve as supplemental tissue sources for lipid analysis in a variety of clinical contexts, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, multiple sclerosis, and Gaucher's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron W. Beger
- Department of Anatomy, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, United States
| | - Kathleen A. Hauther
- Metabolomics Unit, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, United States
| | - Beatrix Dudzik
- Department of Anatomy, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, United States
| | - Randall L. Woltjer
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Paul L. Wood
- Metabolomics Unit, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Griffin CP, Paul CL, Alexander KL, Walker MM, Hondermarck H, Lynam J. Postmortem brain donations vs premortem surgical resections for glioblastoma research: viewing the matter as a whole. Neurooncol Adv 2022; 4:vdab168. [PMID: 35047819 PMCID: PMC8760897 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdab168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There have been limited improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of primary brain cancers, including glioblastoma, over the past 10 years. This is largely attributable to persistent deficits in understanding brain tumor biology and pathogenesis due to a lack of high-quality biological research specimens. Traditional, premortem, surgical biopsy samples do not allow full characterization of the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of glioblastoma, nor capture end-stage disease to allow full evaluation of the evolutionary and mutational processes that lead to treatment resistance and recurrence. Furthermore, the necessity of ensuring sufficient viable tissue is available for histopathological diagnosis, while minimizing surgically induced functional deficit, leaves minimal tissue for research purposes and results in formalin fixation of most surgical specimens. Postmortem brain donation programs are rapidly gaining support due to their unique ability to address the limitations associated with surgical tissue sampling. Collecting, processing, and preserving tissue samples intended solely for research provides both a spatial and temporal view of tumor heterogeneity as well as the opportunity to fully characterize end-stage disease from histological and molecular standpoints. This review explores the limitations of traditional sample collection and the opportunities afforded by postmortem brain donations for future neurobiological cancer research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra P Griffin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Biobank: NSW Regional Biospecimen and Research Services, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christine L Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Priority Research Centre Cancer Research, Innovation and Translation, University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Priority Research Centre Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kimberley L Alexander
- Neurosurgery Department, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Brainstorm Brain Cancer Research, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Neuropathology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marjorie M Walker
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Lynam
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Calvary Mater, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Biovalue in Human Brain Banking: Applications and Challenges for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 34558013 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1783-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Brain banking occupies a central role for the advancement of the study of human neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. The smooth functioning and effectiveness of a brain bank is largely a multidisciplinary effort and requires the cooperation and participation of several players including neurologists, neuropathologists, and research coordinators to guarantee that donated tissue is properly processed and archived. If properly run, brain banks can ultimately lay the foundation for new brain research and pioneer the discovery of new therapies for a variety of neurological diseases.
Collapse
|
6
|
Donahue JE. Scientific community needs to financially support human brain tissue research and brain banks. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2020; 92:jnnp-2020-324942. [PMID: 33148813 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2020-324942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John E Donahue
- Pathology (Division of Neuropathology), Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shepherd CE, Alvendia H, Halliday GM. Brain Banking for Research into Neurodegenerative Disorders and Ageing. Neurosci Bull 2019; 35:283-288. [PMID: 30604281 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-018-0326-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in cellular and molecular biology underpin most current therapeutic advances in medicine. Such advances for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases are hindered by the lack of similar specimens. It is becoming increasingly evident that greater access to human brain tissue is necessary to understand both the cellular biology of these diseases and their variation. Research in these areas is vital to the development of viable therapeutic options for these currently untreatable diseases. The development and coordination of human brain specimen collection through brain banks is evolving. This perspective article from the Sydney Brain Bank reviews data concerning the best ways to collect and store material for different research purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Shepherd
- Neuroscience Research Australia and the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Holly Alvendia
- Neuroscience Research Australia and the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Glenda M Halliday
- Neuroscience Research Australia and the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. .,Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Trujillo Diaz D, Hernandez NC, Cortes EP, Faust PL, Vonsattel JPG, Louis ED. Banking brains: a pre-mortem "how to" guide to successful donation. Cell Tissue Bank 2018; 19:473-488. [PMID: 30220002 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-018-9720-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A review of the brain banking literature reveals a primary focus either on the factors that influence the decision to become a future donor or on the brain tissue processing that takes place after the individual has died (i.e., the front-end or back-end processes). What has not been sufficiently detailed, however, is the complex and involved process that takes place after this decision to become a future donor is made yet before post-mortem processing occurs (i.e., the large middle-ground). This generally represents a period of many years during which the brain bank is actively engaged with donors to ensure that valuable clinical information is prospectively collected and that their donation is eventually completed. For the past 15 years, the Essential Tremor Centralized Brain Repository has been actively involved in brain banking, and our experience has provided us valuable insights that may be useful for researchers interested in establishing their own brain banking efforts. In this piece, we fill a gap in the literature by detailing the processes of enrolling participants, creating individualized brain donation plans, collecting clinical information and regularly following-up with donors to update that information, and efficiently coordinating the brain harvest when death finally arrives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Trujillo Diaz
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nora C Hernandez
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Etty P Cortes
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Phyllis L Faust
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jean Paul G Vonsattel
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center and the New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Division of Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Akinyemi RO, Salami A, Akinyemi J, Ojagbemi A, Olopade F, Coker M, Farombi T, Nweke M, Arulogun O, Jegede A, Owolabi M, Kalaria RN, Ogunniyi A. Brain banking in low and middle-income countries: Raison D'être for the Ibadan Brain Ageing, Dementia And Neurodegeneration (IBADAN) Brain Bank Project. Brain Res Bull 2018; 145:136-141. [PMID: 30149197 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Brain banks are biorepositories of central nervous system (CNS) tissue including fixed and frozen whole brains, brain biopsies and spinal cord, as well as body fluids comprising the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood stored for research purposes. Though several independent brain banks exist in high income countries, only five low- and middle - income countries (LMIC) have brain banks. The African continent is yet to establish a formalized brain bank despite its huge human genomic diversity, ageing of her populations with concomitant increases in ageing - associated brain disorders and differential phenotypic expression and outcomes of brain disorders. Cellular and molecular clinicopathological studies are vital to shaping our understanding of the interaction between racial (genetic) and geographical (environmental) factors in the natural history and mechanisms of disease, and unravelling frameworks of diagnostic biomarkers, and new therapeutic and preventative interventions. The Ibadan Brain Ageing, Dementia And Neurodegeneration (IBADAN) Brain Bank, the first organized brain tissue biorepository in sub - Saharan Africa, is set up to accrue, process and store unique brain tissues for future research into a broad spectrum of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The potential unique discoveries and research breakthroughs will benefit people of African ancestry and other ancestral populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rufus O Akinyemi
- Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Ayodeji Salami
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Joshua Akinyemi
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Akin Ojagbemi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Funmi Olopade
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Motunrayo Coker
- Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Temitope Farombi
- Chief Tony Anenih Geriatric Centre, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Michael Nweke
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oyedunni Arulogun
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ayodele Jegede
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Mayowa Owolabi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Rajesh N Kalaria
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Adesola Ogunniyi
- Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria; Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Brain biospecimen banking requires centralized resources, national networks for referral of donors, trained personnel to interact with grieving families, and scientific staff to process the biospecimens. Process development of quality control standards is needed to meet the specific requirements of emerging genomic and proteomic technologies. Attention has to be paid to agonal factors and postmortem interval, tissue processing, neuropathology review, and long-term storage. Samples of both diseased and unaffected normal tissues are required with age- and gender-matched control tissues. Data management is vital to store and retrieve quality control measures, clinical and pathologic data linked to the biospecimens. Customized solutions for managing the acquisition and long-term storage of high-quality brain and tissue biospecimens is necessary to support neuroscience research programs, biomarker discovery and genome scale technologies. Biorepositories that operate according to best-practice policies and procedures guarantee the final wish of the families who donate tissue to support neuroscience research and discovery science.
Collapse
|
11
|
Ramirez EPC, Keller CE, Vonsattel JP. The New York Brain Bank of Columbia University: practical highlights of 35 years of experience. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 150:105-118. [PMID: 29496134 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63639-3.00008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The New York Brain Bank processes brains and organs of clinically well-characterized patients with age-related neurodegenerative diseases, and for comparison, from individuals without neurologic or psychiatric impairments. The donors, either patients or individuals, were evaluated at healthcare facilities of the Columbia University of New York. Each source brain yields four categories of samples: fresh frozen blocks and crushed parenchyma, and formalin-fixed wet blocks and histology sections. A source brain is thoroughly evaluated to determine qualitatively and quantitatively any changes it might harbor using conventional neuropathologic techniques. The clinical and pathologic diagnoses are integrated to determine the distributive diagnosis assigned to the samples obtained from a source brain. The gradual standardization of the protocol was developed in 1981 in response to the evolving requirements of basic investigations on neurodegeneration. The methods assimilate long-standing experience from multiple centers. The resulting and current protocol includes a constant central core applied to all brains with conditional flexibility around it. The New York Brain Bank is an integral part of the department of pathology, where the expertise, teaching duties, and hardware are shared. Since details of the protocols are available online, this chapter focuses on practical issues in professionalizing brain banking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Etty Paola Cortes Ramirez
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States; New York Brain Bank, Children's Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Jean Paul Vonsattel
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States; New York Brain Bank, Children's Hospital, New York, NY, United States; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Freund M, Taylor A, Ng C, Little AR. The NIH NeuroBioBank: creating opportunities for human brain research. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 150:41-48. [PMID: 29496155 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63639-3.00004-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) NeuroBioBank is a federally funded research resource for human neurologic diseases and disorders. This chapter will discuss the principles that guided the creation of the NIH NeuroBioBank and the rationale for the resource model selected. In addition, we will describe some performance metrics in the first 2 years and highlight recent advances in biomedical neuroscience that could only have been achieved using postmortem human tissues. The NIH NeuroBioBank was created in order to increase availability of high-quality postmortem human brain tissues to the research community across a broad spectrum of neurologic diseases and disorders, and to achieve economies of scale over previous funding and organizational models. In addition, we aim to increase public awareness about the value of human tissue donation for research by providing web-based information to the public and through active outreach to disease advocacy communities. Studies with human brain tissue have led to a rapid increase in our knowledge of the biologic differences between humans and are bridging the divide between humans and model organisms. Studies of human brain are beginning to give us a glimpse not only into what makes us uniquely human as well as how individual biology may be connected to health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Freund
- National Institute of Mental Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Anna Taylor
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Cathy Ng
- National Institute of Mental Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - A Roger Little
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Rockville, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mighdoll MI, Hyde TM. Brain donation at autopsy: clinical characterization and toxicologic analyses. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 150:143-154. [PMID: 29496137 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63639-3.00011-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The study of postmortem human brain tissue is central to the advancement of neurobiologic studies of psychiatric and neurologic illnesses, particularly the study of brain-specific isoforms and molecules. Due to tissue demands, especially pertaining to brain regions strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, the success and future of this research depend on the availability of high-quality brain specimens from large numbers of subjects, including nonpsychiatric controls, both of which may be obtained from brain banks. In this chapter, we elaborate on the need for and acquisition of well-curated and properly diagnosed postmortem human brains, relying upon our experience with the Human Brain and Tissue Repository located at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development in Baltimore, MD. We explain the advantages of sourcing postmortem human tissue from medical examiner offices, which provide access to cases of all ages, both with and without central nervous system disorders. Neuropathology analyses and toxicologic screenings, along with autopsy reports and extensive interviews with family members and treating physicians, are invaluable to the diagnoses of postmortem cases. Ultimately, the study of psychiatric and neurologic disorders is the study of brain disease, and accordingly, there is no substitution for human brain tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle I Mighdoll
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
| | - Thomas M Hyde
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A community-based model of rapid autopsy in end-stage cancer patients. Nat Biotechnol 2016; 34:1010-1014. [DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
15
|
Palmer-Aronsten B, Sheedy D, McCrossin T, Kril J. An International Survey of Brain Banking Operation and Characterization Practices. Biopreserv Biobank 2016; 14:464-469. [PMID: 27399803 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2016.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain banks continue to make a major contribution to the study of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The current complexity and scope of research heighten the need for well-characterized cases and the demand for larger cohorts and necessitate strategies, such as the establishment of bank networks based in regional areas. While individual brain banks have developed protocols that meet researchers' needs within the confines of resources and funding, to further promote collaboration, standardization and scientific validity and understanding of the current protocols of participating banks are required. A survey was sent to brain banks, identified by an Internet search, to investigate operational protocols, case characterization, cohort management, data collection, standardization, and degree of collaboration between banks. The majority of the 24 banks that returned the survey have been established for more than 20 years, and most are affiliated with a regional network. While prospective donor programs were the primary source of donation, the data collected on donors varied. Longitudinal information assists case characterization and enhances the analysis capabilities of research. However, acquiring this information depended on the availability of qualified staff. Respondents indicated a high level of importance for standardization, but only 8 of 24 considered this occurred between banks. Standard diagnostic criteria were not achieved in the classification of controls, and some banks relied on the researcher to indicate the criteria for classification of controls. Although the capacity to collaborate with other banks was indicated by 16 of 24 banks, this occurred infrequently. Engagement of all brain banks to participate toward a consensus of diagnostic tools, especially for controls, will strengthen collaboration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Palmer-Aronsten
- 1 NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre, Charles Perkins Centre, and Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, Australia .,2 Schizophrenia Research Institute , Randwick, Australia
| | - Donna Sheedy
- 1 NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre, Charles Perkins Centre, and Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, Australia
| | - Toni McCrossin
- 1 NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre, Charles Perkins Centre, and Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, Australia
| | - Jillian Kril
- 1 NSW Brain Tissue Resource Centre, Charles Perkins Centre, and Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sutherland G, Sheedy D, Stevens J, McCrossin T, Smith C, van Roijen M, Kril J. The NSW brain tissue resource centre: Banking for alcohol and major neuropsychiatric disorders research. Alcohol 2016; 52:33-39. [PMID: 27139235 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2016.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The New South Wales Brain Tissue Resource Centre (NSWBTRC) at the University of Sydney (Australia) is an established human brain bank providing tissue to the neuroscience research community for investigations on alcohol-related brain damage and major psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia. The NSWBTRC relies on wide community engagement to encourage those with and without neuropsychiatric illness to consent to donation through its allied research programs. The subsequent provision of high-quality samples relies on standardized operational protocols, associated clinical data, quality control measures, integrated information systems, robust infrastructure, and governance. These processes are continually augmented to complement the changes in internal and external governance as well as the complexity and diversity of advanced investigation techniques. This report provides an overview of the dynamic process of brain banking and discusses the challenges of meeting the future needs of researchers, including synchronicity with other disease-focus collections.
Collapse
|
17
|
Samarasekera N, Al-Shahi Salman R, Huitinga I, Klioueva N, McLean CA, Kretzschmar H, Smith C, Ironside JW. Brain banking for neurological disorders. Lancet Neurol 2013; 12:1096-105. [PMID: 24074724 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(13)70202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Brain banks are used to gather, store, and provide human brain tissue for research and have been fundamental to improving our knowledge of the brain in health and disease. To maintain this role, the legal and ethical issues relevant to the operations of brain banks need to be more widely understood. In recent years, researchers have reported that shortages of high-quality brain tissue samples from both healthy and diseased people have impaired their efforts. Closer collaborations between brain banks and improved strategies for brain donation programmes will be essential to overcome these problems as the demand for brain tissue increases and new research techniques become more widespread, with the potential for substantial scientific advances in increasingly common neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neshika Samarasekera
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Harris C, Kiger A, Counsell C. Attitudes to brain donation for Parkinson's research and how to ask: a qualitative study with suggested guidelines for practice. J Adv Nurs 2012; 69:1096-108. [PMID: 22823003 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2012.06099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe factors people consider important in deciding whether or not to donate their brain for research after death. BACKGROUND Brain tissue retrieved at post-mortem is needed to further research into neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease. Previous research has focussed mainly on attitudes to organ donation for transplantation. DESIGN Data were gathered and analysed using a qualitative approach based on grounded theory. METHODS Nineteen people who had made a decision about brain donation, five people with Parkinson's and 14 unaffected individuals, were identified through theoretical sampling. Interviews conducted between September 2007-January 2008 were analysed to identify themes representing the concerns of participants, when making a decision. FINDINGS The three main themes identified were views and beliefs about post-mortem, the importance of family and the things people do not talk about. Although participants were more familiar with the concept of organ donation for transplantation, unanimous support was expressed for brain donation for research. However, beliefs about death and post-mortem, influence of family and the difficulty in talking and thinking about things to do with death all posed barriers to consent when actually asked to make a decision. For some, however, being asked had acted as a catalyst, transforming previously held positive attitudes into a decision to consent. CONCLUSION Guidelines for asking developed from these findings highlight the importance of discussing the issue to raise awareness in potential donors, involving family members, and giving accurate and appropriate information to inform, reassure and to dispel misconceptions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Harris
- Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ravid R, Ferrer I. Brain banks as key part of biochemical and molecular studies on cerebral cortex involvement in Parkinson’s disease. FEBS J 2012; 279:1167-76. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2012.08518.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
20
|
Deep-Soboslay A, Benes FM, Haroutunian V, Ellis JK, Kleinman JE, Hyde TM. Psychiatric brain banking: three perspectives on current trends and future directions. Biol Psychiatry 2011; 69:104-12. [PMID: 20673875 PMCID: PMC3105380 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2010.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Postmortem human brain tissue is critical for advancing neurobiological studies of psychiatric illness, particularly for identifying brain-specific transcripts and isoforms. State-of-the-art methods and recommendations for maintaining psychiatric brain banks are discussed in three disparate collections, the National Institute of Mental Health Brain Tissue Collection, the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, and the Mount Sinai School of Medicine Alzheimer's Disease and Schizophrenia Brain Bank. While the National Institute of Mental Health Brain Tissue Collection obtains donations from medical examiners and focuses on clinical diagnosis, toxicology, and building life span control cohorts, the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center is designed as a repository to collect large-volume, high-quality brain tissue from community-based donors across a nationwide network, placing emphasis on the accessibility of tissue and related data to research groups worldwide. The Mount Sinai School of Medicine Alzheimer's Disease and Schizophrenia Brain Bank has shown that prospective recruitment is a successful approach to tissue donation, placing particular emphasis on clinical diagnosis through antemortem contact with donors, as well as stereological tissue sampling methods for neuroanatomical studies and frozen tissue sampling approaches that enable multiple assessments (e.g., RNA, DNA, protein, enzyme activity, binding) of the same tissue block. Promising scientific approaches for elucidating the molecular and cellular pathways in brain that may contribute to schizophrenia are briefly discussed. Despite different perspectives from three established brain collections, there is consensus that varied networking strategies, rigorous tissue and clinical characterization, sample and data accessibility, and overall adaptability are integral to the success of psychiatric brain banking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Deep-Soboslay
- Section on Neuropathology, Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Francine M. Benes
- Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, Program in Structural and Molecular Neuroscience, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Vahram Haroutunian
- The Mount Sinai School of Medicine Alzheimer's Disease and Schizophrenia Brain Bank, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin K. Ellis
- Section on Neuropathology, Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joel E. Kleinman
- Section on Neuropathology, Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas M. Hyde
- Section on Neuropathology, Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ferretti REDL, Damin AE, Brucki SMD, Morillo LS, Perroco TR, Campora F, Moreira EG, Balbino ÉS, Lima MDCDA, Battela C, Ruiz L, Grinberg LT, Farfel JM, Leite REP, Suemoto CK, Pasqualucci CA, Rosemberg S, Saldiva PHN, Jacob-Filho W, Nitrini R. Post-Mortem diagnosis of dementia by informant interview. Dement Neuropsychol 2010; 4:138-144. [PMID: 29213677 PMCID: PMC5619173 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-57642010dn40200011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2009] [Accepted: 03/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of normal cognition or dementia in the Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group (BBBABSG) has relied on postmortem interview with an informant. OBJECTIVES To ascertain the sensitivity and specificity of postmortem diagnosis based on informant interview compared against the diagnosis established at a memory clinic. METHODS A prospective study was conducted at the BBBABSG and at the Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders (RCCD), a specialized memory clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School. Control subjects and cognitively impaired subjects were referred from the Hospital das Clínicas to the RCCD where subjects and their informants were assessed. The same informant was then interviewed at the BBBABSG. Specialists' panel consensus, in each group, determined the final diagnosis of the case, blind to other center's diagnosis. Data was compared for frequency of diagnostic equivalence. For this study, the diagnosis established at the RCCD was accepted as the gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity were computed. RESULTS Ninety individuals were included, 45 with dementia and 45 without dementia (26 cognitively normal and 19 cognitively impaired but non-demented). The informant interview at the BBBABSG had a sensitivity of 86.6% and specificity of 84.4% for the diagnosis of dementia, and a sensitivity of 65.3% and specificity of 93.7% for the diagnosis of normal cognition. CONCLUSIONS The informant interview used at the BBBABSG has a high specificity and sensitivity for the diagnosis of dementia as well as a high specificity for the diagnosis of normal cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renata Eloah de Lucena Ferretti
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- University of ABC
| | - Antonio Eduardo Damin
- RCCD, Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders,
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Sonia Maria Dozzi Brucki
- RCCD, Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders,
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Lilian Schafirovits Morillo
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- RCCD, Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders,
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Tibor Rilho Perroco
- RCCD, Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders,
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry,University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia Campora
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Eliza Guccione Moreira
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Érika Silvério Balbino
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | | | - Camila Battela
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Lumena Ruiz
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Lea Tenenholz Grinberg
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San
Francisco
| | - José Marcelo Farfel
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Renata Elaine Paraiso Leite
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Claudia Kimie Suemoto
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
| | - Carlos Augusto Pasqualucci
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- São Paulo Autopsy Service
| | - Sérgio Rosemberg
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Hilário Nascimento Saldiva
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Wilson Jacob-Filho
- Division of Geriatrics, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Nitrini
- Brazilian Brain Bank of the Aging Brain Study Group -
Laboratory of Medical Investigations 22 (LIM 22)
- RCCD, Reference Center for Cognitive Disorders,
University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, University of São Paulo
Medical School, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Xi ZQ, Xiao F, Yuan J, Wang XF, Wang L, Quan FY, Liu GW. Gene expression analysis on anterior temporal neocortex of patients with intractable epilepsy. Synapse 2009; 63:1017-28. [PMID: 19623530 DOI: 10.1002/syn.20681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
To elucidate the molecular basis of intractable epilepsy (IE), we used a whole-genome transcriptomic approach to identify genes involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. Using a complementary DNAs microarray representing 4096 human genes, we analyzed differential gene expression in the anterior temporal neocortex (ATN) of IE patients relative to control patients who had an operation to relieve head trauma-related intracranial pressure. The results were validated by real-time fluorescence-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (FQ-PCR) and reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). The expression of 143 genes (3.5%) was significantly altered in IE patients. Thirty-seven genes (26%) were reduced relative to controls, and 106 (74%) were elevated (more than twofold change vs. controls), including genes involved in immunity, signal transduction, apoptosis, stress, synaptic plasticity, structural, and cellular reorganization, among other processes. Results for 13 of the 14 differentially expressed genes tested by FQ-PCR were consistent with the microarray. Twelve abnormally expressed cytoskeletal genes were confirmed by RT-PCR. Expression of 11 was significantly higher in the ATN of IE patients than in controls. Gene products altered in IE, namely HSPBAP1, TRAP220, glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK-3beta), and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), were tested by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. GSK-3beta and CDK5 levels were significantly higher in the ATN of IE patients. Our gene chip data are generally in agreement with the published findings on epilepsy. Thus, gene chips may serve as a screening tool to elucidate the pathophysiology of IE. Investigation of some of these newly identified genes should enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of epileptogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Qin Xi
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Affiliation(s)
- N V Vakhnina
- Department of Nervous Diseases, I. M. Sechenov Moscow Medical Academy, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cerebrovascular smooth muscle actin is increased in nondemented subjects with frequent senile plaques at autopsy: implications for the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2009; 68:417-24. [PMID: 19287310 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0b013e31819e6334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously found that vascular smooth muscle actin (SMA) is reduced in the brains of patients with late stage Alzheimer disease (AD) compared with brains of nondemented, neuropathologically normal subjects. To assess the pathogenetic significance and disease specificity of this finding, we studied 3 additional patient groups: nondemented subjects without significant AD type pathology ("Normal"; n = 20), nondemented subjects with frequent senile plaques at autopsy ("Preclinical AD"; n = 20), and subjects with frontotemporal dementia ("FTD"; n = 10). The groups were matched for sex and age with those previously reported; SMA immunohistochemistry and image analysis were performed as previously described. Surprisingly, SMA expression in arachnoid, cerebral cortex, and white matter arterioles was greater in the Preclinical AD group than in the Normal and FTD groups. The plaques were not associated with amyloid angiopathy or other vascular disease in this group. Smooth muscle actin expression in the brains of the Normal group was intermediate between the Preclinical AD and FTD groups. All 3 groups exhibited much greater SMA expression than in our previous report. The presence of frequent plaques and increased arteriolar SMA expression in the brains of nondemented subjects suggest that increased SMA expression might represent a physiological response to neurodegeneration that could prevent or delay overt expression dementia in AD.
Collapse
|
25
|
Sandusky G, Dumaual C, Cheng L. Review Paper: Human Tissues for Discovery Biomarker Pharmaceutical Research: The Experience of the Indiana University Simon Cancer Center—Lilly Research Labs Tissue/Fluid BioBank. Vet Pathol 2009; 46:2-9. [DOI: 10.1354/vp.46-1-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Sandusky
- Simon Cancer Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| | - C. Dumaual
- Simon Cancer Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| | - L. Cheng
- Simon Cancer Center and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
|
27
|
Twenty-first century brain banking: practical prerequisites and lessons from the past: the experience of New York Brain Bank, Taub Institute, Columbia University. Cell Tissue Bank 2008; 9:247-58. [PMID: 18581261 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-008-9079-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2008] [Accepted: 05/18/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Generally accepted methods for processing postmortem brains are lacking, despite the efforts of pioneers in the field, and the growing awareness of the importance of brain banking for investigating the pathogenesis of illnesses unique to humans. Standardizing methods requires compromises, institutional or departmental mindset promoting collaboration, and the willingness to share ideas, information, and samples. A sound balance between competition and institutional interests is needed to best fulfill the tasks entrusted to health care institutions. Thus, a potentially widely accepted protocol design involves tradeoffs. We successfully integrated brain banking within the operation of the department of pathology. We reached a consensus whereby a brain can be utilized for diagnosis, research, and teaching. Thus, routing brains away from residency programs is avoided. The best diagnostic categorization possible is being secured and the yield of samples for research maximized. Thorough technical details pertaining to the actual processing of brains donated for research were recently published. Briefly, one-half of each brain is immersed in formalin for performing the neuropathologic evaluation, which is combined with the teaching task. The contralateral half is extensively dissected at the fresh state to obtain samples ready for immediate disbursement once categorized diagnostically. The samples are tracked electronically, which is crucial. This important tracking system is described separately in this issue. This report focuses on key lessons learned over the past 25 years of brain banking including successful solutions to originally unforeseen problems.
Collapse
|
28
|
Grinberg LT, Amaro E, Teipel S, dos Santos DD, Pasqualucci CA, Leite REP, Camargo CR, Gonçalves JA, Sanches AG, Santana M, Ferretti REL, Jacob-Filho W, Nitrini R, Heinsen H. Assessment of factors that confound MRI and neuropathological correlation of human postmortem brain tissue. Cell Tissue Bank 2008; 9:195-203. [PMID: 18548334 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-008-9080-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2008] [Accepted: 05/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In spite of considerable technical advance in MRI techniques, the optical resolution of these methods are still limited. Consequently, the delineation of cytoarchitectonic fields based on probabilistic maps and brain volume changes, as well as small-scale changes seen in MRI scans need to be verified by neuronanatomical/neuropathological diagnostic tools. To attend the current interdisciplinary needs of the scientific community, brain banks have to broaden their scope in order to provide high quality tissue suitable for neuroimaging- neuropathology/anatomy correlation studies. The Brain Bank of the Brazilian Aging Brain Research Group (BBBABSG) of the University of Sao Paulo Medical School (USPMS) collaborates with researchers interested in neuroimaging-neuropathological correlation studies providing brains submitted to postmortem MRI in-situ. In this paper we describe and discuss the parameters established by the BBBABSG to select and to handle brains for fine-scale neuroimaging-neuropathological correlation studies, and to exclude inappropriate/unsuitable autopsy brains. We tried to assess the impact of the postmortem time and storage of the corpse on the quality of the MRI scans and to establish fixation protocols that are the most appropriate to these correlation studies. After investigation of a total of 36 brains, postmortem interval and low body temperature proved to be the main factors determining the quality of routine MRI protocols. Perfusion fixation of the brains after autopsy by mannitol 20% followed by formalin 20% was the best method for preserving the original brain shape and volume, and for allowing further routine and immunohistochemical staining. Taken to together, these parameters offer a methodological progress in screening and processing of human postmortem tissue in order to guarantee high quality material for unbiased correlation studies and to avoid expenditures by post-imaging analyses and histological processing of brain tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea T Grinberg
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ferrer I, Martinez A, Boluda S, Parchi P, Barrachina M. Brain banks: benefits, limitations and cautions concerning the use of post-mortem brain tissue for molecular studies. Cell Tissue Bank 2008; 9:181-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s10561-008-9077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2008] [Accepted: 05/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
30
|
Bell JE, Alafuzoff I, Al-Sarraj S, Arzberger T, Bogdanovic N, Budka H, Dexter DT, Falkai P, Ferrer I, Gelpi E, Gentleman SM, Giaccone G, Huitinga I, Ironside JW, Klioueva N, Kovacs GG, Meyronet D, Palkovits M, Parchi P, Patsouris E, Reynolds R, Riederer P, Roggendorf W, Seilhean D, Schmitt A, Schmitz P, Streichenberger N, Schwalber A, Kretzschmar H. Management of a twenty-first century brain bank: experience in the BrainNet Europe consortium. Acta Neuropathol 2008; 115:497-507. [PMID: 18365220 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-008-0360-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2008] [Revised: 02/28/2008] [Accepted: 02/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Collections of human postmortem brains gathered in brain banks have underpinned many significant developments in the understanding of central nervous system (CNS) disorders and continue to support current research. Unfortunately, the worldwide decline in postmortem examinations has had an adverse effect on research tissue procurement, particularly from control cases (non-diseased brains). Recruitment to brain donor programmes partially addresses this problem and has been successful for dementing and neurodegenerative conditions. However, the collection of brains from control subjects, particularly from younger individuals, and from CNS disorders of sudden onset, remains a problem. Brain banks need to adopt additional strategies to circumvent such shortages. The establishment of brain bank networks allows data on, and access to, control cases and unusual CNS disorders to be shared, providing a larger resource for potential users. For the brain banks themselves, inclusion in a network fosters the sharing of protocols and development of best practice and quality control. One aspect of this collective experience concerns brain bank management, excellence in which is a prerequisite not only for gaining the trust of potential donors and of society in general, but also for ensuring equitable distribution to researchers of high quality tissue samples. This review addresses the legal, ethical and governance issues, tissue quality, and health and safety aspects of brain bank management and data management in a network, as well as the needs of users, brain bank staffing, donor programs, funding issues and public relations. Recent developments in research methodology present new opportunities for researchers who use brain tissue samples, but will require brain banks to adopt more complex protocols for tissue collection, preparation and storage, with inevitable cost implications for the future.
Collapse
|
31
|
Vonsattel JPG, Del Amaya MP, Keller CE. Twenty-first century brain banking. Processing brains for research: the Columbia University methods. Acta Neuropathol 2008; 115:509-32. [PMID: 17985145 PMCID: PMC2292479 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-007-0311-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2007] [Revised: 10/11/2007] [Accepted: 10/14/2007] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Carefully categorized postmortem human brains are crucial for research. The lack of generally accepted methods for processing human postmortem brains for research persists. Thus, brain banking is essential; however, it cannot be achieved at the cost of the teaching mission of the academic institution by routing brains away from residency programs, particularly when the autopsy rate is steadily decreasing. A consensus must be reached whereby a brain can be utilizable for diagnosis, research, and teaching. The best diagnostic categorization possible must be secured and the yield of samples for basic investigation maximized. This report focuses on integrated, novel methods currently applied at the New York Brain Bank, Columbia University, New York, which are designed to reach accurate neuropathological diagnosis, optimize the yield of samples, and process fresh-frozen samples suitable for a wide range of modern investigations. The brains donated for research are processed as soon as possible after death. The prosector must have a good command of the neuroanatomy, neuropathology, and the protocol. One half of each brain is immersed in formalin for performing the thorough neuropathologic evaluation, which is combined with the teaching task. The contralateral half is extensively dissected at the fresh state. The anatomical origin of each sample is recorded using the map of Brodmann for the cortical samples. The samples are frozen at -160 degrees C, barcode labeled, and ready for immediate disbursement once categorized diagnostically. A rigorous organization of freezer space, coupled to an electronic tracking system with its attached software, fosters efficient access for retrieval within minutes of any specific frozen samples in storage. This report describes how this achievement is feasible with emphasis on the actual processing of brains donated for research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Paul G Vonsattel
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, The Department of Pathology in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Banco de tejidos neurológicos de Sant Joan de Déu-Serveis de Salut Mental para la investigación de las enfermedades mentales. La importancia de un programa de donación en vida. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1134-5934(08)71126-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
33
|
Stopa EG, Butala P, Salloway S, Johanson CE, Gonzalez L, Tavares R, Hovanesian V, Hulette CM, Vitek MP, Cohen RA. Cerebral Cortical Arteriolar Angiopathy, Vascular Beta-Amyloid, Smooth Muscle Actin, Braak Stage, and
APOE
Genotype. Stroke 2008; 39:814-21. [DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.107.493429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Edward G. Stopa
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Parag Butala
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Stephen Salloway
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Conrad E. Johanson
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Liliana Gonzalez
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Rosemarie Tavares
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Virginia Hovanesian
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Christine M. Hulette
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Michael P. Vitek
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| | - Ronald A. Cohen
- From the Departments of Pathology (E.G.S., P.B., R.T., V.H.), Psychiatry and Human Behavior (S.S., R.A.C.), and Clinical Neurosciences (E.G.S., S.S., C.E.J.), Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; the Department of Computer Science and Statistics (L.G.), University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI; and Departments of Medicine (Neurology Division) and Pathology (Neuropathology Division) (C.M.H., M.P.V.), Bryan Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Duke University School of
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Millar T, Walker R, Arango JC, Ironside JW, Harrison DJ, MacIntyre DJ, Blackwood D, Smith C, Bell JE. Tissue and organ donation for research in forensic pathology: the MRC Sudden Death Brain and Tissue Bank. J Pathol 2008; 213:369-75. [PMID: 17990279 DOI: 10.1002/path.2247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Novel methodological approaches to the investigation of brain and non-central nervous system disorders have led to increased demand for well-characterized, high quality human tissue samples, particularly from control cases. In the setting of the new Human Tissue legislation, we sought to determine whether relatives who have been suddenly bereaved are willing to grant authorization for research use of post mortem tissue samples and organs in sufficient numbers to support the establishment of a brain and tissue bank based in the forensic service. Research authorization was sought from families on the day prior to forensic post mortem examination followed up by written confirmation. We have to date selected individuals who have died suddenly (age range 1-89 years) and who were likely to have normal brains or who had displayed symptoms of a CNS disorder of interest to researchers, including psychiatric disorders. One hundred and eleven families have been approached during the first 2 years of this project. Research use of tissue samples was authorized by 96% of families and 17% agreed to whole brain donation. Audit of families' experience does not suggest that they are further distressed by being approached. Respondents expressed a clear view that the opportunity for research donation should be open to all bereaved families. Despite the sometimes long post mortem intervals, the quality of tissue samples is good, as assessed by a range of markers including Agilent BioAnalyzer quantification of RNA integrity (mean value 6.4). We conclude that the vast majority of families are willing to support research use of post mortem tissues even in the context of sudden bereavement and despite previous adverse publicity. The potential for acquisition of normal CNS and non-CNS tissues and of various hard-to-get CNS disorders suggests that efforts to access the forensic post mortem service for research material are eminently worthwhile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Millar
- Neuropathology Unit, University of Edinburgh, Alexander Donald Building, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
One avenue of progress toward understanding the neurobiological basis of autism is through the detailed study of the post-mortem brain from affected individuals. The primary purpose of autism brain tissue banking is to make well-characterized and optimally preserved post-mortem brain tissue available to the neuroscience research community. In this paper we discuss our current understanding of the criteria for optimal characterization and preservation of post-mortem brain tissue; the pitfalls associated with inadequate clinical and neuropathological characterization and the advantages and disadvantages of post-mortem studies of the brain. We then describe the current status of the brain tissue bank supported by the Autism Tissue Program, including the demographic characteristics of the tissue donors, post-mortem interval, sex, age and the method of preservation. Finally, we provide information on the policies and procedures that govern the distribution of brain specimens by this bank and the nature of the studies that are currently being supported directly by this program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vahram Haroutunian
- Department of Psychiatry, The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY 10029-6574, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
|
37
|
Mathew SV, Law AJ, Lipska BK, Dávila-García MI, Zamora ED, Mitkus SN, Vakkalanka R, Straub RE, Weinberger DR, Kleinman JE, Hyde TM. Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor mRNA expression and binding in postmortem human brain are associated with genetic variation in neuregulin 1. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 16:2921-32. [PMID: 17884806 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddm253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in cell culture and in animals suggest that neuregulin 1 (NRG1), a probable schizophrenia susceptibility gene, regulates the expression of the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). We hypothesized that schizophrenia-associated allelic variations within the NRG1 gene, via their effects on NRG1 isoform expression, would be associated with alterations in nAChR alpha7 receptor levels. We examined the effects of four disease-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the 5' region of the NRG1 gene on nAChR alpha7 mRNA transcript expression in both the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and hippocampus of normal controls and patients with schizophrenia using quantitative real-time PCR. NRG1 risk alleles at SNPs SNP8NRG221132 and rs6994992 predicted significantly lower nAChR alpha7 mRNA expression in the DLPFC. Haplotypes containing the risk alleles at the above SNPs were also associated with lower expression of nAChR alpha7 in the DLPFC. The genotype effect for rs6994992 and the haplotype effect were more pronounced within the schizophrenic patient group. To determine whether receptor levels follow that of mRNA expression, we performed receptor binding and autoradiography using [(125)I] alpha-bungarotoxin in the DLPFC. Consistent with the mRNA findings, we found a decrease in binding in risk allele carriers of SNP8NRG221132 as compared with heterozygous individuals. Together, these results suggest that the molecular mechanism of the association between NRG1 risk alleles and schizophrenia may include down-regulation of nAChR alpha7 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiny V Mathew
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892-1385, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Sandusky GE, Teheny KH, Esterman M, Hanson J, Williams SD. Quality control of human tissues--experience from the Indiana University Cancer Center-Lilly Research Labs human tissue bank. Cell Tissue Bank 2007; 8:287-95. [PMID: 17387635 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-007-9037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2006] [Accepted: 02/26/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The success of molecular research and its applications in both the clinical and basic research arenas is strongly dependent on the collection, handling, storage, and quality control of fresh human tissue samples. This tissue bank was set up to bank fresh surgically obtained human tissue using a Clinical Annotated Tissue Database (CATD) in order to capture the associated patient clinical data and demographics using a one way patient encryption scheme to protect patient identification. In this study, we determined that high quality of tissue samples is imperative for both genomic and proteomic molecular research. This paper also contains a brief compilation of the literature involved in the patient ethics, patient informed consent, patient de-identification, tissue collection, processing, and storage as well as basic molecular research generated from the tissue bank using good clinical practices. The current applicable rules, regulations, and guidelines for handling human tissues are briefly discussed. More than 6,610 cancer patients have been consented (97% of those that were contacted by the consenter) and 16,800 tissue specimens have been banked from these patients in 9 years. All samples collected in the bank were QC'd by a pathologist. Approximately 1,550 tissue samples have been requested for use in basic, clinical, and/or biomarker cancer research studies. Each tissue aliquot removed from the bank for a research study were evaluated by a second H&E, if the samples passed the QC, they were submitted for genomic and proteomic molecular analysis/study. Approximately 75% of samples evaluated were of high histologic quality and used for research studies. Since 2003, we changed the patient informed consent to allow the tissue bank to gather more patient clinical follow-up information. Ninety two percent of the patients (1,865 patients) signed the new informed consent form and agreed to be re-contacted for follow-up information on their disease state. In addition, eighty five percent of patients (1,584) agreed to be re-contacted to provide a biological fluid sample to be used for biomarker research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George E Sandusky
- Lilly Research Labs and Indiana University Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Grinberg LT, Ferretti REDL, Farfel JM, Leite R, Pasqualucci CA, Rosemberg S, Nitrini R, Saldiva PHN, Filho WJ. Brain bank of the Brazilian aging brain study group - a milestone reached and more than 1,600 collected brains. Cell Tissue Bank 2006; 8:151-62. [PMID: 17075689 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-006-9022-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2006] [Accepted: 07/05/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain banking remains a necessity for the study of aging brain processes and related neurodegenerative diseases. In the present paper, we report the methods applied at and the first results of the Brain Bank of the Brazilian Aging Brain Study Group (BBBABSG) which has two main aims: (1) To collect a large number of brains of elderly comprising non-demented subjects and a large spectrum of pathologies related to aging brain processes, (2) To provide quality material to a multidisciplinar research network unraveling multiple aspects of aging brain processes and related neurodegenerative diseases. METHODS The subjects are selected from the Sao Paulo Autopsy Service. Brain parts are frozen and fixated. CSF, carotids, kidney, heart and blood are also collected and DNA is extracted. The neuropathological examinations are carried out based on accepted criteria, using immunohistochemistry. Functional status are assessed through a collateral source based on a clinical protocol. Protocols are approved by the local ethics committee and a written informed consent form is obtained. RESULTS During the first 21 months, 1,602 samples were collected and were classified by Clinical Dementia Rating as CDR0: 65.7%; CDR0.5:12.6%, CDR1:8.2%, CDR2:5.4%, and CDR3:8.1%. On average, the cost for the processing each case stood at 400 US dollars. To date, 14 laboratories have been benefited by the BBBABSG. CONCLUSION The high percentage of non- demented subjects and the ethnic diversity of this series may be significantly contributive toward aging brain processes and related neurodegenerative diseases understanding since BBBABSG outcomes may provide investigators the answers to some additional questions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Tenenholz Grinberg
- Department of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, SP 01246-903, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lipska BK, Deep-Soboslay A, Weickert CS, Hyde TM, Martin CE, Herman MM, Kleinman JE. Critical factors in gene expression in postmortem human brain: Focus on studies in schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry 2006; 60:650-8. [PMID: 16997002 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2006.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2005] [Revised: 06/13/2006] [Accepted: 06/14/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of postmortem human brain are important for investigating underlying pathogenic molecular mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders. They are, however, confounded by pre- and postmortem factors. The purpose of this study was to identify sources of variation that will enable a better design of gene expression studies and higher reliability of gene expression data. METHODS We assessed the contribution of multiple variables to messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of reference (housekeeping) genes measured by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) by multiple regression analysis in a large number (N = 143) of autopsy samples from the hippocampus and white and grey matter of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of patients with schizophrenia and normal control subjects. RESULTS The strongest predictor of gene expression was total RNA quality. Other significant factors included pH, postmortem interval, age and the duration of the agonal state, but the importance of these factors depended on transcript measured, brain region analyzed, and diagnosis. The quality of RNA obtained from the DLPFC white matter was also adversely affected by smoking. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that normalization of expression data of target genes with a geometric mean of multiple housekeeping genes should be used to control for differences in RNA quality between samples. The results also suggest that accurate assessment of other confounding factors and their inclusion as regressors in the analysis is critical for obtaining reliable and accurate quantification of mRNA expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K Lipska
- Clinical Brain Disorders Branch, Division of Intramural Research Programs, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1385, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ghorpade A, Bruch L, Persidsky Y, Chin B, Brown WHC, Borgmann K, Persidsky R, Wu L, Holter S, Cotter R, Faraci J, Heilman D, Meyer V, Potter JF, Swindells S, Gendelman HE. Development of a rapid autopsy program for studies of brain immunity. J Neuroimmunol 2005; 163:135-44. [PMID: 15885316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2005.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2004] [Revised: 01/12/2005] [Accepted: 01/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Human glia are essential cellular models used for studies of neurodegenerative diseases. Fetal neuroglia are commonly used, as they can be recovered in large quantities and sustained for long periods in culture. However, fetal neuroglia may have limitations in reflecting adult diseases and additionally can pose ethical issues in translating products of abortion for research use. To address these concerns, we developed a rapid autopsy program to procure age- and disease-specific neuroglia from adult brain tissues within hours of death. The challenges in developing this initiative, reflecting experiences from 69 autopsies over 4 years, are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Ghorpade
- Laboratory of Cellular Neuroimmunology, 985215 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198-5215, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Soverchia L, Ubaldi M, Leonardi-Essmann F, Ciccocioppo R, Hardiman G. Microarrays--the challenge of preparing brain tissue samples. Addict Biol 2005; 10:5-13. [PMID: 15849014 DOI: 10.1080/13556210412331327803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Microarray experiments allow researchers to collect an amazing amount of gene expression data that have the potential to provide unique information to help interpretation of the biological functions of the central nervous system. These experiments are, however, technically demanding and present unique difficulties when used in the context of neuroscience research, in particular. Success or failure of microarray experiments are highly dependent on reproducible target preparations. This involves a relatively long chain of preparation steps, such as removal of tissue from experimental animals or from post-mortem human brains, storage, selection, and excision of brain regions. This is followed by RNA extraction, reverse transcription, and labeling of target cDNAs or cRNAs. Additionally, it is emphasized that the quality of microarray data largely relies on the proper handling of animals throughout experiments and the time of the day when experiments are stopped. This article tries to provide hints for some basic rules to be observed in preparation of samples for expression profiling studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Soverchia
- Department of Pharmacological Science and Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Beesley J, Roush C, Baker L. High-throughput molecular pathology in human tissues as a method for driving drug discovery. Drug Discov Today 2004; 9:182-9. [PMID: 14960398 DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6446(03)02973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
To facilitate prioritization of potential drug targets, gene expression can be localized to individual cell types in normal and diseased tissues. Given the complexity of molecular physiology and pathology, the creation of large-scale molecular pathology databases collating data obtained from human tissues is a challenging marriage of old and new technologies, particularly when considering the many issues that preclude easy access to substantial quantities of human tissues. Molecular pathology databases are powerful tools and are essential for early-stage drug discovery, enabling informed decisions to be made with respect to scientific direction and follow-up research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian Beesley
- LifeSpan BioSciences, 2401 4th Avenue, Suite 900, Seattle, WA 98121, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|